Staying Sober on Labor Day Weekend

To some people, the idea of spending a holiday weekend clean and sober may seem impossible. Having fun in recovery, without the need for drugs and alcohol, is possible. We do this by creating a plan and new traditions with the help of sober supports, friends, and family.

Here are some tips to stay safe and sober this Labor Day Weekend:

Surround yourself with people who support your recovery

Whenever possible be with the people who understand and encourage your ongoing sobriety. When it’s not possible to be with your sober friends, make sure they understand where you are going to be and what that will be like for you. Stay in contact with your sponsor and sober supports throughout the day. Then plan to get together with them afterwards to process.

Have an escape plan

If you are celebrating Labor Day at someone’s house, go with a trusted friend. Be prepared to leave if things become too difficult or stressful. Try to stay somewhere that feels safe. Be realistic about the time that you spend somewhere. You can always stay longer if you’re comfortable and everything is going well. If the visit is difficult, you will be grateful you were planning on leaving.

Avoid Pressure

If you are invited to attend a BBQ or a party where you know people will be using alcohol or drugs, consider finding alternative plans. Don’t put yourself in a position where you will put your recovery in jeopardy. You could be enjoying Labor Day somewhere else.

Set boundaries

If your friends or family are not in recovery, they are relying on you to tell them what you need. If you prefer that they didn’t drink in front of you, tell them. If you would prefer not to go to a party or BBQ where you know people will be impaired, let them know. Ask for the time, space, and support that you need. If they are not willing to respect your boundaries, it is better to know that and make other plans.

Create new traditions

Host your own sober Labor Day BBQ. You can also ask what sober supports have planned and ask to tag along.

Set boundaries and place limits, put guidelines in place to stay safe and to protect your recovery. Having fun sober, during special events that revolve around alcohol, is possible.

3 Comments

I always drive myself whenever possible, if I can’t, I attempt to ride with my alanon or some other person in recovery.
But ther IS so much to enjoy in sobriety, and like the book says, we can go anywhere, so long as we are in FIT SPIRITUAL CONDITION!

I have been clean and sober for almost 4 years now. I didn’t think I could enjoy a regular weekend without methamphetamine or alcohol. But I was wrong. My life is on the right track now. I am 56 years old and I just wish I would have done this sooner.

My first your of sobriety was fairly difficult..but somehow I became “teachable”.I had to unlearn so many bad behaviors, and then learn a new way of living.I found the right people that had the kind of sobriety I wanted..the ones that were having fun, embracing this new sober life.Its been almost six years and ive learned how to have fun and enjoy the moment..